Japeth decides to join next month's PBA rookie draft

The player projected to be the biggest name in next month’s PBA Rookie Draft has formally made himself available in the August 2 event at the Market! Market! Activity Center in Taguig City. Big man Japeth Aguilar, the former Ateneo and Western Kentucky University stalwart, officially joined the Draft when he submitted his application to the league office Thursday. The 6-foot-9 son of former Northern Consolidated center Peter Aguilar signed his application before leaving last week with the Powerade-Team Pilipinas for the 31st William Jones Cup tournament, but didn’t come to a final decision shortly until the Nationals’ game against Lebanon Wednesday night. “Gusto ko na rin maka-akyat sa susunod na level habang bata pa ‘ko," said Aguilar, who had to consult family and friends first before making a decision. The 22-year old center is a hand’s down choice to become the overall top pick in this year’s Draft. National coach Yeng Guiao, whose Burger King team owns the first pick overall, foresees a bright future for the slam-dunking, shot swatting big man in the pros. “Japeth will be the most dominant big man in the PBA ever." Although his mind is preoccupied now with the 25th FIBA Asia Men’s Championship in Tianjin, China next month, Guiao has other matters percolating in the backburner. “All I’ve asked is for a chance to work on Japeth for at least one conference, and (Whopper) team manager Lito Alvarez has assured me there is no way they’re not going to get him," said Guiao. Now in the States, Peter, following his stint with Ron Jacobs’ NCC squad in the ‘80s, played for five PBA ballclubs – Añejo Rhum, Alaska, 7-Up, Sta. Lucia Realty and Shell – from 1989 to 1993. “Siya lang talaga ang idolo ko sa PBA," Japeth had said earlier of his father. “Pinapanood ko lagi yung mga tapes niya noon. Kaya gusto ko rin makasunod sa yapak niya." PBA commissioner Sonny Barrios, booked to fly in from Manila Thursday afternoon, said Aguilar will be “an asset not only to his team but also to the PBA" while he showcases his basketball talent and skills." “The PBA family welcomes Japeth to the premier basketball league of the country," said Barrios. “I wish him all the best as I join all PBA fans in eagerly waiting for his debut in the games this coming October." Expected to join Aguilar in the Draft are Rico Maierhofer, Ogie Menor, Jervy Cruz, PBL MVP Chris Ross, Chris Timberblake and Marcy Arellano. The deadline of submission of application will be on July 24. – GMANews.TV